“It is sickening what these four lads have done to my mother - I want to see them caught and punished.

"God knows what I’d do if I get my hands on them.

“My mother is in total shock, I don’t think she’s realised what’s happened. She is too terrified to leave her home, but is still very calm and doing her best to stay that way.

“She’s tried to cover her bruises up by wearing dark glasses, she was sat down when we arrived and told me she was too afraid to go outdoors.”

Manchester Evening News Syndication

Horrified: Karen Priestley wants justice

Joan, of Haughton Green, Greater Manchester, described the gang leader as possibly mixed race and wearing reddish gloves, similar to rubber kitchen gloves, and a second offender as pale and “thuggish-looking”.

They are said to be in their mid 20s. The other two offenders were also said to be white but in their early teens.

Greater Manchester Police tracked Joan down after daughter Karen released the shocking image.

Detective Inspector Richard Ennis said: “This poor victim was so distraught by what happened that she essentially shut herself away from the world, fearing that these horrible muggers would find her.

"Thankfully her daughter paid her a visit and was at least able to offer some comfort.

“These young men ruthlessly beat a lone elderly woman. Two of them appear to be quite young, but they were clearly led by two older men.

"I want to appeal direct to both the offenders and their families - you wouldn’t want your grandma or mum to end up like this.

“If you feel uneasy by what happened then please call the police.

“Horrific attacks like this are rare and I want to reassure residents we are doing all we can to find the offenders.”